Backyard party season is officially in full swing, and after the winter we just survived most of us are using any excuse to be outside as often as possible. 

And so to get this party started, we chatted with celebrity designer Nicole Sassaman for a few ideas. 

Bring the Inside Out
We're used to hearing "bring the outside in", but Nicole flips this around for backyard entertaining. To create a comfortable and elegant setting, set your dining room table and chairs out on your deck. Create cozy sitting areas on a stone patio with your living room couches and side tables.

Having a hard time visualizing? Try these ideas on for size: 

(credit: LaurenConrad.com / Jan Garcia) 
 

(credit: mate_the_Label)
 
Break Out the China
It may seem counter-intuitive (hello plastic or paper plates!) but a backyard soiree is really the perfect time to bring out the fancy tableware. Since you'll be eating on your dining room table, it's not really that much of stretch to see how this makes all kinds of sense. 


(credit: HouseBeautiful.com / Joe Schmelzer) 

Elegant Touches
Even a simple picnic table takes on a new personality when it gets a pretty dressing. Start with those tablecloths you never use (or fussy curtains for that matter!), and if you're a serial overachiever string up a thrifted chandelier from the rafters of your pergola: 


(credit: Village) 


(via WeddingChicks.com)

Quick Clean-up
During your pre-party house cleaning you probably ran the dishwasher one last time with your breakfast and lunch dishes, but did you remember to empty it before the party started? You'll be eager to get back to your guests as quickly as possible, so loading dirty supper dishes into an empty dishwasher can save a lot of time.

Speaking of dishes (sparkling clean ones, that is), we recently tested OxiClean™ 4X Concentrated Extreme Power Crystals™ Dishwasher Detergent with our Product Review Club with rave results! Available in Crystals and single dose Paks, clean-up is super simple because there's no need to pre-soak, pre-wash, or re-wash when the dishes are done. 

Don't forget to fill your rinse aid dispenser with OxiClean™ Dishwashing 2 in 1 Booster Rinse Agent and add two squirts in the bottom of your dishwasher to supercharge your detergent for a crystal clean shine. Waking up the next morning to sparkling clean dishes and a tidy kitchen will also make your entire hosting experience that much easier.


Your turn: Have another outdoor entertaining tip to share? Let us know in the comments!